tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766Thu, 22 Jun 2017 02:28:41 +0000EstelleAlesha DixonJourdan DunnNaomi CampbellPride magazineAlexandra BurkeArise magazineBashyBeverley KnightMica ParisStevie WonderVV BrownAdulthoodBBC 1XtraChanel ImanChipmunkCrying BloodDiana RossEmil WilbekinGirls AloudH BoogieJanelle MonaeLauryn HillLemarLeona LewisMel BMichelle ObamaNaomie HarrisNoel ClarkeNotting Hill carnival 2009Rachel HyltonStrictly Come DancingThe JacksonsThe London PaperUsain BoltVibe magazine50th anniversaryACLTAbigail BlackburnAcid JazzAdam DeaconAdrian LesterAfro SaxonsAisha MorrisAlek WekAmerican IdolAndrea LevyAngelica BellAngie Le MarArlenis SosaArmand Van HeldenAsafa PowellAsha BandeleAsher DAshley WaltersAugust issueAvatarBAFTAsBBC Radio TwoBeautifulBeijing OlympicsBerry GordyBeverley Knight K CosmeticsBeyonceBlack Barbie doll supplementBlack Girls Rule issueBob MarleyBolt ArmsBonkersBorn AgainBoy In Da CornerBrand New HeaviesBreathe SlowBrit AwardsBritish Fashion AwardsBubblyBusta RhymesBy the Time You Read ThisCapital RadioCaroline MarshCat On A Hot Tin RoofCatfights and SpotlightsCee-loCeleb AirCelebAirCelebrity Big BrotherChocolate FilmsChris RockChristy TurlingtonCindy CrawfordClaude GrunitzkyClaudia SchifferColourblind CardsColuresConstance BriscoeCoolioCosmopolitan magazineCraig DavidDSquared2Daily MailDanyel SmithDebbie AllenDestiny's ChildDidier DrogbaDirty DianaDizzee RascalDorothy KoomsonDr Cristiane NorthupDr WhoElizabeth Garrett Anderson schoolEric BenetErykah BaduEssence magazine IT girl competitionEssence.comFashioning your lifeFearless Female AwardsFemi OyeniranFitness DVDFive StarFloetryFreema AgyemanFunGemma WeekesGirls Make your MarkGood HairGoodnightGrace JonesGuy RitchieHallelujahHannah OsunsinaHead Shoulders Knees and ToesHill St. SoulHodder and StoughtonHotel BabylonI'll Be ThereI'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of HereID MagazineITV2Idris ElbaImanIndig02Island RecordsJLSJade EwenJameliaJames Earl JonesJamiroquaiJamrock magazineJanet JacksonJessica HuieJonathan RossJuly issueK CosmeticsKanoKelisKelly RowlandKeri HilsonKeyshia ColeKidulthoodLady Ga GaLatoya JacksonLaura IziborLeaveLeona Lewis I-D MagazineLeona Lewis autobiographyLinda EvangelistaLinford ChristieLionel RichieLisa MafiaLiya KebedeLola JayeLouis ArmstrongLouis WalshLove MeMIAMadonnaMahoganyMake MeMalcolm MackenzieMarch 2010 issueMarvin GayeMatilda Egere-CooperMegan JoyMercury PrizeMica Paris Simply BeMichael JacksonMichael Jackson memorialMichael ObioraMichael XMichelle WilliamsMiles DavisMiss Black BritanMiss World 2009Mobo Nominations partyMotown recordsMs DynamiteMutyaMy Best Friend's GirlN'Dea DavenportNaughty By NatureNeneh CherryNew Kids on the BlockNigel BarkerNow magazineOmarOprah WinfreyOrange Rising Star AwardP-DiddyPETAPatrina MilnerPeter AndrePhylicia RashadPleasure PrinciplePresident ObamaPretty Please videoPretty Young ThingPride magazine September issuePrincePuma AdRachel ChristieRachel WilliamsRadio 1 Big WeekenderRandy JacksonRappers DelightReverend RunRichard BlackwoodRichard and Judy BookclubRickie/MelvinRidley ScottRobert PalmerRocknrollaRoll DeepSabrina WashingtonSadeSamata AngelSanna LathanSantogoldScreen Nation AwardsSecret MillionaireSessilee LopezShaggySiedah GarrettSimon CowellSimon FullerSimon WebbeSingle RunSinittaSister ActSmall IslandSmall Island imagesSnow PatrolSoul SolutionsSpeech DebelleSpike LeeSuede magazineSugar Hill GangSugarbabesSupermodel OluchiSusan TaylorSwayTaio CruzTake ThatTalenthouseTerri WalkerTesco magazineThe Alesha ShowThe Ice Cream GirlsThe Mobo AwardsThe New NationThe PasadenasThe TemptationsThe Ting TingsThe Wisdom of MenopauseThis Day AfricaThriller LiveTina TurnerTorchwoodTotally FitTrace magazineTreachTrevor NelsonTrya BanksTurn Your Lights Down LowTyson GayUbah HassanUrban Music AwardsV MagazineVanessa WaltersVelvet RopeVogue ItaliaWhen Love Takes OverWhitneyWhitney HoustonWhoopi GoldbergWileyWith YouWorld Health OrganizationWu Tang ClanX-Factor FinalsYou magazineYour Wish is My CommandZoe Saldanadebut album Travelling Like The Lightdebut novel Black Shoesfur designer Dennis Bassoi-d magazinememoir UglyThe Cocoa Diarieshttp://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)Blogger225125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-8316103788074955605Fri, 04 Jun 2010 19:54:00 +00002010-06-04T21:00:51.592+01:00So Long, Farewell...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/TAlbGCXYqNI/AAAAAAAAA9I/nbfhfSFuXEw/s1600/suitcases.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 292px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/TAlbGCXYqNI/AAAAAAAAA9I/nbfhfSFuXEw/s400/suitcases.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479010580945217746" /></a><br /><p></p><p></p><p>Hey folks, if you're still with me (and I'm truly appreciative if you are), I've now moved home. From now on you can catch me at <strong><a href="http://www.thecocoadiaries.wordpress.com">www.thecocoadiaries.wordpress.com. </a></strong>This site is now defunct. </p><p>Bye bye Blogger, it's been real.</p><p>With Love</p><p>Ms Quiche xxx</p>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2010/06/so-long-farewell.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-6297110756373619239Sat, 06 Mar 2010 00:54:00 +00002010-03-06T01:41:17.289+00:00Arise magazineColuresSuede magazineUbah Hassan<p><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><em><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Arise Magazine: Still Rising After All These... Months</span></strong></span></em></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; font-family:'lucida grande';font-size:24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; font-family:Georgia;font-size:16px;"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/S5GxW7-iSAI/AAAAAAAAA9A/hw4SkZo_PRA/s400/Arise+magazine+Feb+10.jpg" /></span></span><br /></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span></em></span></strong></p><p>This is the gorgeous cover of the new issue (issue 8) of <strong><a href="http://www.arisemagazine.net/">Arise magazine</a></strong>. The striking visage belongs to Somalian model, <strong><a href="http://nymag.com/fashion/models/uhassan/ubahhassan/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Ubah</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Hassan</span> </a></strong>who is featured inside the mag illustrating a piece on natural hair (apparently texture is all the rage this season... as if we needed telling). I've been a fan of this magazine since it launched over a year ago. I'm delighted that it's still in existence considering so many magazines geared towards black audiences with high production values tend to fall by the wayside a la <strong><a href="http://www.coluresmagazine.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Colures</span> </a></strong>and the fab but short-lived,<strong><a href="http://thefashionbomb.blogspot.com/2007/01/pour-out-little-licquorsuede-magazine.html"> Suede magazine.</a></strong> And even more encouraging, the magazine has gone down in price to a credit crunch friendly £2.95, so do go out and support the cause. I picked up a copy a couple of weeks ago and am ashamed to admit it's under my desk somewhere, yet to be read (slapped wrists). </p>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2010/03/arise-magazine-still-rising-after-all.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-283984347212095925Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:11:00 +00002010-02-25T00:14:28.187+00:00EstelleEstelle Unleashes The Freak<object width="560" height="340"><p><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/H6JZRlS1ZM8&amp;hl=en_GB&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></p></object><p>A wee preview of Estelle's forthcoming single 'Freak'. Mmmm. this looks interesting. Will post more when the full video premieres on Friday. </p>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2010/02/estelle-unleashes-freak.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-4348604582025954850Wed, 24 Feb 2010 23:39:00 +00002010-02-25T00:29:22.514+00:00Emil WilbekinEssence magazine IT girl competitionImanSusan TaylorEssence Goes in Search of an IT girl<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/S4W5B2XNo8I/AAAAAAAAA8w/e38Ttp5zYFg/s1600-h/essence(1).jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 342px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/S4W5B2XNo8I/AAAAAAAAA8w/e38Ttp5zYFg/s400/essence(1).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441959166170997698" /></a><br /><p>In overseas news, I discovered from the fabulous <strong><a href="http://www.themusingsofondolady.blogspot.com">Ondo Lady</a></strong> that<strong><a href="http://www.essence.com/"> Essence magazine </a></strong>is holding a competition to find the consummate IT girl. The winner of the prize will be featured in the September issue of Essence and will win a contract with <strong>Elite Model Management</strong> (oooh, how very ANTM! Can almost image Tyra holding pictures and slowly mouthing the words). I’m a HUGE Essence fan, although if I’m being honest, I do feel the magazine has lost its soul somewhat since the departure of <strong>Susan Taylor.</strong> Back in the day when I was a regular reader, Susan’s monthly spiritual column was the first page I would turn to. She was the heartbeat of the magazine, and her influence could be felt throughout the pages, which had a lot more soul and grit to it. But hats off to Essence for embracing the digital age. Their website is great - it’s updated frequently and chocker block with interviews, pap snaps of celebrities and stories of relevance to Black women worldwide. I also love the various blogs they have with influential people from the likes of <strong><a href="http://blogs.essence.com/jet-setting_with_iman/">Iman </a></strong>to media darling <a href="http://blogs.essence.com/emilsemail/"><strong>Emil Wilbekin. </strong></a>And as for the modelling completion? Well I would enter but I’m told that *ahem* it’s only opened to those who are based in the US. *Sigh*, Chanel Iman, you‘re lucky this time. </p>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2010/02/essence-goes-in-search-of-it-girl.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-8452861239868605938Wed, 24 Feb 2010 23:00:00 +00002010-02-24T23:04:08.731+00:00March 2010 issuePride magazineSadeSade is our PRIDE<p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/S4Wv05QbRrI/AAAAAAAAA8o/ZIWy8NiGVg4/s1600-h/Sade.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 310px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/S4Wv05QbRrI/AAAAAAAAA8o/ZIWy8NiGVg4/s400/Sade.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441949048004888242" /></a><br /></p><p>For the first time in <strong><a href="http://www.pridemagazine.com">Pride magazine's </a></strong>18 year history, Sade will grace the cover. The issue hits the shelves this week. Enough said. </p>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2010/02/sade-is-our-pride.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-901730919059598767Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:18:00 +00002010-02-24T00:46:45.132+00:00BeautifulDorothy KoomsonGoodnightMy Best Friend's GirlRichard and Judy BookclubThe Ice Cream GirlsCocoa Read: The Ice Cream Girls, Dorothy Koomson<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/S4RzFQJXVhI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/ijK_LatDlw8/s1600-h/Ice+cream+girls.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/S4RzFQJXVhI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/ijK_LatDlw8/s400/Ice+cream+girls.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441600783841187346" /></a><br />Reading is something I do less often since having my little Khy Khy. Prior to motherhood, I would easily plough through a book every couple of weeks. Nowadays I’d be lucky to get through one per month. That is of course, unless I’m truly engrossed in a ‘can’t put down-able’ read. You know the kind where you stay up untill some ungodly hour totally immersed in the chapters, and before you know it, you’ve fallen asleep with your glasses on and the pages of the book lying face down on your cheeks. Mmmm, well this very same thing happened to me on several occasions while reading the brilliant <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/?ie=UTF8&amp;keywords=the+ice+cream+girls&amp;tag=googhydr-21&amp;index=aps&amp;hvadid=4707146439&amp;ref=pd_sl_lb690sult_b">Ice Cream Girls by author Dorothy Koomson</a></span>. Before I go on to tell you about the book itself, can we just take a few moments to applaud the sublimely talented Ms Koomson. Dorothy is one of the most celebrated new talents in the women’s contemporary fiction world. Ice Cream Girls is the author’s 6th novel, which as we know in the touch-and-go world of book publishing is quite an achievement. One of Dorothy’s previous novels, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Best-Friends-Girl-Dorothy-Koomson/dp/0751537071">My Best Friend‘s Girl,</a></span> was selected for a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Richard-Judys-Book-Club/b?ie=UTF8&amp;node=13790191">Richard and Judy Summer Read</a></span> and went on to sell an impressive 500,000 copies. <div><br /><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/S4RzQJfZIEI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/RW7AMpt4etQ/s400/KoomsonDorothy.jpg" /><div><br />I first learnt of Dorothy Koomson - the author, when one of her books <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Goodnight-Beautiful-Dorothy-Koomson/dp/1847442722">‘Goodnight, Beautiful’</a></span> landed on the editorial desk at Pride. The girls in the office all read the book and gave it a glowing report. As for me? I just couldn’t go there. The novel is based on a Mother whose life is torn apart when her son falls into a coma after a freak accident. As a Mother of a young boy that was just a little to scary a prospect to even contemplate. So I left it well alone. So anyhow, back to Ice Cream Girls. A few weeks ago I received an advance copy of the book and decided to give it a go. By the first couple of pages: I was hooked. To give you a brief rundown without giving too much away: the book follows two women whose lives become inextricably linked through an incident which occurs during their mid teens. Serena and Poppy are both young, vulnerable schoolgirls who become romantically involved with an abusive and manipulative teacher. Things come to head in a climatic scene leading to a whodunit type situation to rival the who killed Archie storyline in Eastenders (wasn’t that brilliant by the way?) Dorothy’s magic is her spot on characterisation. Lead protagonists, Serena and Poppy feel real and tangible, you inadvertently take on their emotional baggage as they attempt to navigate through life carrying the heavy burden of their insufferable past. By the end of the book you’re rooting for both women, hoping they’ll stop warring against each other and realise they were both victims. I love when a book forces you to think when you read the closing page. I was left thinking about how real an issue sexual abuse is in schools. I went to quite a regular comprehensive in south London, and lost count of the amount of girls who were dating guys at least 10-15 years their senior. I wonder what happened to them? Like Serena and Poppy, are they still dealing with the consequences of their actions, all these years later? Yup, The Ice Cream Girls will take you there, so be prepared to do a lot of post-book reflecting. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It had all the elements I love in a novel - non stop drama, great characters, a message and an unpredictable ending. If you do get round to buying a copy, I’d love to hear what you think.<br /><strong><br /></strong><em><strong>The Ice Cream Girls is out now. Order a copy from Amazon. </strong></em></div><div><em><strong><br /></strong></em><br /><br /><br /><br /></div></div>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2010/02/cocoa-read-ice-cream-girls-dorothy.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-7524626746893200115Fri, 19 Feb 2010 18:03:00 +00002010-02-19T18:41:19.762+00:00Fresh for 2010<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/S37W-TX4KFI/AAAAAAAAA8I/Pnw1G7j2Mo4/s1600-h/Box+fresh+trainers.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 223px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/S37W-TX4KFI/AAAAAAAAA8I/Pnw1G7j2Mo4/s400/Box+fresh+trainers.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440021765750794322" /></a><br /><br /><p>Mmmm, how shame do I feel posting a New Year’s entry when we’re a mere week and spare change away from March 2010? *bows head in shame*. But anyhow, for what it’s worth - I’m back folks! I know it’s been a while, and I kinda feel as if I’m continually making feeble excuses for my online absence. However, on this occasion it’s definitely a case of life getting in the way. So what have I been up to? Well without boring you to death with every detail, there’s been quite a lot of change in my life over the last few months. I’ve finally moved home - yay! I’m still in south east London but just a little bit further out than I used to be. My new abode is a lovely split level, two bed apartment with a roof area which has the most bootiful view of the city (to our left is Canary Wharf and I wave to the 02 building practically every night and pretend I am enraptured, with my lighter in the air at a gig in the Arena). But needless to say, it hasn’t all been sweetness and light. Rich and I have endured more than our fair share of ‘new home dramas’ which culminated with a dramatic Backdrft-esq visit from the fire service after a pipe attached to our boiler burst and wouldn’t shut off. You should’ve seen us both. We were skating across the wet kitchen floor, clothes drenched, with bucketloads of water in our hands, which we were capturing to try and prevent it from spilling downstairs into our poor neighbour's appartment. Not nice. I’m keeping my fingers and toes cross that there won't be any more incidents for now, because I’m almost certain that my ole ticker can’t cope with any more unforeseen circumstances of that nature… Pray for me. So that was our lil home drama. On a more positive note, my little K has finally started ‘big school’. He started the first week in January and managed to put on a brave face as his nervous wreck of a Mama fought the urge to blubber the whole of Brockley down. It’s kinda scary to see already the numerous changes in his personality - from his confidence to maturity - in such a short space of time. Gawd help Rich and I. Before we know it, he'll be a bumbling, incoherent, aspiring Grime emcee. And that’s more or less it folks. I’m finally started to feel a bit settled, and now my Broadband has finally been installed by Sky (it only took ‘em 2 months), I’m ready to get back in the swing of things, blog wise. <br /></p><br />Hope your new year is treating you well<br /><br />Ciao<br /><br />MsQuichehttp://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2010/02/fresh-for-2010.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-2394143552262357025Thu, 26 Nov 2009 15:43:00 +00002009-11-26T16:03:11.982+00:00Abigail BlackburnAvatarCaroline MarshNow magazinePride magazineSecret MillionaireZoe SaldanaPride's Crimbo 09 Issue<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sw6lIwgIlJI/AAAAAAAAA7w/9pyIWMhhRq8/s1600/_wsb_336x434_DecCoverLR.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 310px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sw6lIwgIlJI/AAAAAAAAA7w/9pyIWMhhRq8/s400/_wsb_336x434_DecCoverLR.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408441772395762834" /></a><br /><br /><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:georgia, serif;">The December issue of Pride hits the shelves round about now and features Hollywood hottie Zoe Saldana on the cover – isn’t she lovely? The actress is set to star in the forthcoming James Cameron directed sci-fi blockbuster Avatar, and talks to Pride about her role, embracing her Black Latina roots, and not wanting to be viewed as a ‘black sexpot’ (Pah! We’re not sure if we believe you on that one Zo’s). Other articles to look out for include a discussion about the BNP post Question Time, the British recolonizing the Turks and Caicos, as well as interviews with the Editor of Now magazine, Abigail Blackburn, and Secret Millionaire star Caroline Marsh. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal">Ensure you pick up a copy, I think we've put together a great issue this month. </p> <!--EndFragment-->http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/11/prides-crimbo-09-issue.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-2114935404685561564Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:02:00 +00002009-11-25T00:43:01.461+00:00Christmas Shopping Offer to TCD Readers<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Swx9PFZ28UI/AAAAAAAAA7g/sy6zOK3AhMQ/s1600/Zoe+Huskisson.jpeg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 259px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Swx9PFZ28UI/AAAAAAAAA7g/sy6zOK3AhMQ/s400/Zoe+Huskisson.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407834950667268418" /></a><br /><p>London based stylist Zoe Husskisson has launched an online gift consultation service which is perfect for xmas. Style Elite Personal Shopping Service promises to take the stress out of shopping, by saving you much needed time and energy. Style Elite Personal Shopping is offering readers of The Cocoa Diaires this service at a discounted rate of £10. If interested, please email info@style-elite.com quoting reference Cocoa Diaries.</p><p>See below for a sample gift portfolio, showcasing a few gift ideas:</p><p>GIFT IDEAS REPORT<br /><br />Purchaser: Sister<br />Recipient’s Age: 21<br />Gift Occasion: 21st birthday present<br />How much does the purchaser want to spend: £0-150<br />Recipient’s Style: Vintage Chic<br />Any other relevant information regarding recipient: “My sister is a girly girl who loves feminine and vintage things (clothes, bags, jewellery etc). She has just moved into a flat with her best friend and loves finding unusual interiors from markets and her travels. She prefers vibrant and soft colours as opposed to dark tones. She is also a perfume junkie who loves to collect unusual bottles. I would like to give her something special for her landmark birthday that will last and she will treasure”</p><p><br />Gift Ideas:<br />Based on your responses to the form we have found a few gift ideas for your sister. All gifts reflect your sister’s love for vintage products and also her interest of fashion, beauty and home interiors. We are confident that your sister will be more than happy with any of our choices and look forward to helping you find your next special gift.</p><p><br /></p><p><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Swx6IBA-86I/AAAAAAAAA7Y/_BVSisGatng/s400/Chez+minette+birdcage+mirror.jpg" /></p><p>First choice: Mirror, Mirror</p><p>This unique birdcage mirror is the perfect addition to your sister’s new home. The bird perched on top of the frame makes this a stylish and unusual present. She will love the charming vintage mirror which will instantly add a romantic feel to her home.</p><p>Price: £125</p><p>www.bouf.com</p><p><br /></p><p>Second Choice: Heaven Scent fragrances not only smell divine but will also look so chic on your sister’s dressing table. </p><p><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Swx5-ty6xhI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/86HJhS3VNjY/s400/Style+elite+promotion_fragrances.jpg" /></p><p><br /></p><p>La Prairie’s three Life Thread </p><p>Price: £42.50</p><p>Product: <br />Product Info: La Prairie has created a new trilogy of fragrances that suit the many moods and moments in a woman’s life. Silver, a warm, sensual fragrance that is somehow citrusy, floral and musky; Gold, a spicy scent that is both feminine and powerful; and Platinum, a sophisticated scent that screams luxury, with woodsy tones meeting strong floral. The three are encased in gorgeous lucite bottles wrapped in strands of silver, gold and platinum, respectively.<br /><br /><br /></p><p></p><p><br /><br /></p><p><br /><br /><br /></p>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/11/christmas-shopping-offer-to-tcd-readers.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-8609396111263455926Tue, 24 Nov 2009 23:17:00 +00002009-11-24T23:25:24.209+00:00Alexandra BurkeTalenthouseAlexandra Burke is Looking for Support<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SwxqAisP3rI/AAAAAAAAA7I/y7XOJOBnmp8/s1600/Alexandra+Burke+Nokia.jpeg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 274px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SwxqAisP3rI/AAAAAAAAA7I/y7XOJOBnmp8/s400/Alexandra+Burke+Nokia.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407813810110062258" /></a><br /><p>Hey folks, just wanted to alert you to the fact that my fave X-Factor winner, Alexandra Burke, is looking for a supporting act from anywhere in the world through TalentHouse.com for an exclusive 'Nokia Good Things' concert in the UK on December 9th. <br /></p><a href="http://talenthouse.com/creativeinvites/show/detail/94?THSessionId=97026541fdeba77d1a0d90ed0494dbd3"> <br />Click here for more info</a><br /><p>Here's a little bit of background info on Talenthouse.com:<br /></p> Talenthouse is the leading platform for creative collaboration, providing artists opportunities for recognition and compensation. Talenthouse embraces artists at every level of their career, as well as all supporters of the arts. Attracted by the potential for discovering, collaborating with and mentoring emerging talent, many global brands and acclaimed industry icons are involved with Talenthouse by hosting Creative Invites. Brands choose Talenthouse to engage in a dialogue with their audience in a targeted, relevant and credible context. Talenthouse currently focuses on film, fashion, music, art and photography. For more information, log onto www.talenthouse.com<br /><br /> http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/11/alexandra-burke-is-looking-for-support.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-4690838338294996903Sun, 22 Nov 2009 00:53:00 +00002009-11-22T01:49:24.592+00:00Janet JacksonMadonnaMake MePleasure PrincipleVelvet RopeWhitneyThe Rebirth of Janet: Don't Stop Till You Get Enough<object width="560" height="340"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZwQyUTkGOew&amp;hl=en_GB&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br />It took Janet to bring me out of blogging retirement, God bless you Ms Damita Jo. But I had to, just HAD TO give props to the woman who I’ve admired since I was a greasy faced teen trying to learn the entire dance routine to ‘What Have You Done for me Lately’ in my Ma’s bedroom. <br /><br />Back in the 80’s Janet was unstoppable. Ladies, who didn’t want to be as sassy and badass as Janet in the Pleasure Principle video? Remember that banging fringed weave? The casual cool of her black slacks and denim jacket get up? The rude girl choreography? One word: fiyah! And what about the effortless execution of the intricate military moves in the iconic Rhythm Nation video?There’s no denying that Janet was the shiznit, although she didn’t receive the respect and kudos that the likes of Madonna and Whiney did. But then the unthinkable happened. Janet fell off. It happened somewhere after the Velvet Rope when her musical output nosedived in quality and became a sea of banal, uninspired, corniness. By the time the Superbowl ‘nipple-gate’ incident occurred I had sworn off Janet completely. The woman who I once held in such high regard had in my eyes transformed into a desperate, attention-seeking has-been, who was doing her hardest to try and stay relevant Ooooh the shame of it!<br /><br /><p>In a tragic twist, it would be the death of her big bro Michael that would bring her back to form (or at least in my eyes anyway). To be honest, when I heard that Janet had a new tune out I couldn’t have been less interested. But the opening bars of ‘Make Me’ stopped me dead…Wait a minute, this sounds like throwback Janet. Like hot gyal Janet. Like ‘do you know who my brother was’ Janet. Yay, what a result. The video premiered today and I’ve played it around 5 times already. Admittedly there could’ve had a bit more choreography for me to copy, but I know I'm just being greedy. Great to have you back JJ!</p><p><em>Sidenote: And how much do I love that little ode to MJ "Don't stop it baby, don't stop till you get enough"? Awww, RIP Michael. </em></p><object width="425" height="344"><p><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JrZoa3MPINU&amp;hl=en_GB&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></p></object><p></p><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/4EleKwkt_fU&amp;hl=en_GB&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/4EleKwkt_fU&amp;hl=en_GB&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/11/rebirth-of-janet-dont-stop-till-you-get.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-8990130429458603509Tue, 20 Oct 2009 22:51:00 +00002009-10-28T20:41:24.239+00:00Relax. Just Do It.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SuisaA2PX8I/AAAAAAAAA7A/6hDK9mYlUWE/s1600-h/palm-trees.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 287px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SuisaA2PX8I/AAAAAAAAA7A/6hDK9mYlUWE/s400/palm-trees.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397753716307615682" /></a><br /><p>Hey folks! How you doing? Just wanted to take a few moments to apologise for my blogging absence. I wish I could say there was a particular reason for me going awol, but there isn't really. I guess I'm just feeling a little burnt out. So my brain has decided to take a mini vacation, but I promise I'll be be back soon. In the meantime take the time to get acquainted with the fabulous links listed on the bottom right. I'm promise you pure Blog Fiyah! Oh and I haven't disappeared offline altogther. I've more or less given up on Facebook, but you can catch me on Twitter pretty much all the time. Click on my Twitter button if you wish to follow follow me.</p><p>Ciao for now</p><p>Ms Quichexxx </p>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/10/relax-just-do-it.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-709299064931186731Wed, 02 Sep 2009 12:23:00 +00002009-09-02T14:14:32.064+01:00Andrea LevyAshley WaltersNaomie HarrisSmall Island imagesStills from BBC Drama - Small Island<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp5uG-1fqUI/AAAAAAAAA60/c8WbZHS7Mfs/s1600-h/GetAttachment-3.aspx.jpeg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp5uG-1fqUI/AAAAAAAAA60/c8WbZHS7Mfs/s400/GetAttachment-3.aspx.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376856071352592706" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp5t02oiXAI/AAAAAAAAA6s/UBpDV_mMKPk/s1600-h/GetAttachment-2.aspx.jpeg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 309px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp5t02oiXAI/AAAAAAAAA6s/UBpDV_mMKPk/s400/GetAttachment-2.aspx.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376855759913114626" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp5tp9p92rI/AAAAAAAAA6k/GeNZmtQ7JsA/s1600-h/GetAttachment-1.aspx.jpeg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 269px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp5tp9p92rI/AAAAAAAAA6k/GeNZmtQ7JsA/s400/GetAttachment-1.aspx.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376855572819598002" /></a><br />Here are some images from the forthcoming BBC Drama, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Small Island</span>, starring <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Naomie Harris</span> and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Ashley Walters</span>. The two part series is based on the award winning novel of the same name written by <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Andrea Levy</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="">,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""> a</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="">nd tells the common tale of young Jamaican immigrants who arrive in the UK in hope of a better life, only to get a hostile reception from their host country</span>. Really looking forward to this. Let's hope the Beeb do it justice. Transmission date is unconfirmed but will most likely air in October. <div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/09/stills-from-bbc-drama-small-island.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-358797556827392178Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:50:00 +00002009-09-01T15:05:52.613+01:00Beverley Knight K CosmeticsMica Paris Simply BeR&B Singers Turn Entrepreneurs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0pCWygu0I/AAAAAAAAA6M/tjWZxhQpvQI/s1600-h/Beverly+knight+range.png"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 390px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0pCWygu0I/AAAAAAAAA6M/tjWZxhQpvQI/s400/Beverly+knight+range.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376498650604157762" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0odQMdYrI/AAAAAAAAA6E/qdCmko_Xvfc/s1600-h/Mica+Paris1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0odQMdYrI/AAAAAAAAA6E/qdCmko_Xvfc/s400/Mica+Paris1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376498013178782386" /></a><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0oFpNF7CI/AAAAAAAAA58/yUrS5e53hWU/s400/Mica+Paris+2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376497607575464994" /><br /><br />Here's a sneak peek of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Beverley Knight's</span> ad campaign for her new make up range <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.kbybeverleyknightcosmetics.com/">K By Beverley Knight</a></span> (launching on September 17th) and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Mica Paris's</span> fashion collaboration with plus size retailers <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="www.simplybe.co.uk">Simply Be</a></span><a href="www.simplybe.co.uk">.</a> What do you think?<div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/09/r-singers-turn-entrepreneurs.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-4332681956474640553Tue, 01 Sep 2009 11:50:00 +00002009-09-01T13:22:40.499+01:00Daily Mailfur designer Dennis BassoNaomi CampbellPETANaomi Would Rather Keep Earning Than Not Wear Fur<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0P78Sob2I/AAAAAAAAA5s/95Z2vf0D8GQ/s1600-h/article-1210423-063FA4CE000005DC-254_468x700.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0P78Sob2I/AAAAAAAAA5s/95Z2vf0D8GQ/s400/article-1210423-063FA4CE000005DC-254_468x700.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376471052621213538" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0P05UBLEI/AAAAAAAAA5k/UHRsHdQV36Q/s1600-h/article-1210423-063FA79B000005DC-879_468x641.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 292px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0P05UBLEI/AAAAAAAAA5k/UHRsHdQV36Q/s400/article-1210423-063FA79B000005DC-879_468x641.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376470931562638402" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0PuQO5O4I/AAAAAAAAA5c/drFAGUGRIdE/s1600-h/article-1210423-063FA793000005DC-291_468x639.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 293px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Sp0PuQO5O4I/AAAAAAAAA5c/drFAGUGRIdE/s400/article-1210423-063FA793000005DC-291_468x639.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376470817456077698" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Naomi Campbell</span> is featured on the Daily Mail's website, after pictures emerged of her modelling in a new ad campaign for New York fur designer <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Dennis Basso</span>. The writer of the piece accuses the model of being a hypocrite due to the anti fur stance she took when she was a model/spokesperson for <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">PETA </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">(People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals)</span>, who created the famous tag-line "I'd rather go naked than wear fur"</span>. In all honesty I thought Naomi had long severed ties with PETA, and had been spotted wearing fur on a few occasions since. Whatever the case, she still looks amazing. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1210423/Naomi-Campbell-models-sable-coat--15-years-Peta-anti-fur-advert.html">Click here for the article</a></span><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div></div></div>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/09/naomi-would-rather-keep-earning-than.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-2415420278129644661Mon, 31 Aug 2009 11:27:00 +00002009-08-31T13:14:54.661+01:00Notting Hill carnival 2009My Carnival U Turn<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spu97X2Uh6I/AAAAAAAAA5U/E8mGGbWKBVE/s1600-h/Nott+Carnival2009_2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 326px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spu97X2Uh6I/AAAAAAAAA5U/E8mGGbWKBVE/s400/Nott+Carnival2009_2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376099407908603810" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spu90DxzK2I/AAAAAAAAA5M/yjiCGHEU_uI/s1600-h/-notting-hill-carniva2l_0.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 326px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spu90DxzK2I/AAAAAAAAA5M/yjiCGHEU_uI/s400/-notting-hill-carniva2l_0.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376099282261846882" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spu8fHuHNrI/AAAAAAAAA48/-38EOWUWTJE/s1600-h/-notting-hill-carnival3_0.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 326px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spu8fHuHNrI/AAAAAAAAA48/-38EOWUWTJE/s400/-notting-hill-carnival3_0.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376097823031244466" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spu8T1aph2I/AAAAAAAAA40/JIpCs6zMVgE/s1600-h/-notting-hill-carniva4l_0.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 326px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spu8T1aph2I/AAAAAAAAA40/JIpCs6zMVgE/s400/-notting-hill-carniva4l_0.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376097629139208034" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.thelondonpaper.com/thelondonpaper/news/london/notting-hill-carnival-gets-under-way?image=5"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Picture source</span></a></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Wasn’t it me who only a few days ago said I wouldn’t be going back to Notting Hill Carnival? Umm, so why did I find myself yesterday afternoon packed like a tin of sardines being carried along with the crowds on Portobello Road? Yup, I succumbed. </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">It took only a few persuasive phone calls from my cousin and there I was heading to our designated meeting place, bringing Khy along for the journey. The good news: it wasn’t as scary as I thought it would be, and to my surprise Khy wasn’t at all frightened by the crowds or the noise, and on the contrary was bopping along to the sounds of Donaeo like a carnival pro. The bad news: it was long. We spent the whole day walking for miles trying to find the floats with the flamboyant costumes and before you knew it Khy started to get really tetchy. Things got progressively worse when he announced that he needed to go to the toilet and needed to go quickly. Anyone who has ever been to an event of that size knows that’s an impossible feat. </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">But my son being my son refused to empty his bladder in a discreet place </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">“Mum, I can’t, everyone will see my bum bum”. </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">So instead I headed to the yucky Porto loos where there was a ridiculously long queue, and I knew there was no way he would hold out for that long. My only other option was to use a shop or someone’s house. Sounds like the perfect solution, but the catch is of course you have to pay for the privilege. The places I came across were charging anywhere between the region of £1 to £3. I know - blue murder! Eventually we came across this lovely looking Notting Hill apartment where the man at the gate uttered the magic words “kids go free”. I virtually pushed Khy through the doors before he changed his mind, and voila - problem solved. Or so I thought. </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">After rejoining my fam and anticipating at least a couple of hours of dancing, my son simply decided he had enough. All it took was me refusing his request for an ice cream before he embarked on one set of wailing that could be heard above the booming sound systems. That was it. Enough. I promptly said goodbye to my carnival crew, headed to the nearest train station and was home in an hour or so nursing the biggest headache and sore feet. What is it they say about always trusting your instincts?</span></span></p>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/08/my-carnival-u-turn.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-4609084543571448092Sun, 30 Aug 2009 01:03:00 +00002009-08-30T02:22:59.062+01:00Bolt ArmsPuma AdUsain BoltKinda Strange: Puma's Bolt Arms Ad<object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/LYg4CMJ6p-w&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/LYg4CMJ6p-w&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><div><br /></div><div>Okay, I'll admit I've developed another obsession with <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Usain Bolt </span>following his earth shattering, record breaking performance at the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">World Championships in Berlin</span>. I just came across this ad by <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Puma</span> advertising the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Bolt Arms </span>- which is basically a foam constructed pair of arms replicating his famous lightning pose. I saw a few spectators at the games waving these around, and thought it was pretty funny. Anyway, the ad is kinda cheesy. Poor Usain. </div><div><br /></div>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/08/kinda-strange-pumas-bolt-arms-ad.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-6644592812312979639Thu, 27 Aug 2009 23:09:00 +00002009-08-30T02:36:56.944+01:00Notting Hill carnival 2009It's Baccannal Time!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spm4GYuio-I/AAAAAAAAA4s/TDVoZ2-PQrc/s1600-h/NottingHill_450x300.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spm4GYuio-I/AAAAAAAAA4s/TDVoZ2-PQrc/s400/NottingHill_450x300.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375530050099782626" /></a><br /><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Tomorrow will mark the 45th birthday of the Notting Hill Carnival, wow, forty five years!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Back in the day, around this time of year, I’d be making some serious preparations ahead of the carnival celebrations</span></span></span>. My girls and I would be deciding what outfits to wear, what sound systems to check out, and you know yours truly would be practicing the latest dance moves to execute them at Europe's biggest street party. But that was then. Today my Bank Holiday shenanigans are more likely to consist of a visit to Ikea, or a vigorous house clean from top to bottom followed by a couple of hours spent with relatives. Yup, I know - BORING! You see, unfortunately once you get to a certain age the fun element of carnival is superseded by fear. I know in my case, year after year I’d read the horror stories and worry that I might be caught in the crossfire of a gang war, get robbed, crushed in a stampede or some other life threatening incident. The last time I remember attending around 6 years ago, true to word, I did get caught up in a crush and promised myself that if I ever got out alive, I wouldn’t go back. So far I’ve kept my promise. Not to say I don’t miss it though. I do. Desperately. I was contemplating taking my son to the kiddie carnival on Sunday, but I don’t know if either me or him are ready for that (he’s only 4). Maybe next year. Just maybe.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>But anyhoo, in proxy of me actually going down to West London to ‘hol’ up mi foot and jump’ I thought I’d compile a little list of top carnival tunes as voted by my Twitter and Facebook fam, followed by a little homage. So here goes:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">TOP CARNIVAL TUNES</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; ">Let the Beat Hit 'Em - Lisa Lisa &amp; Cult Jam, as voted by ME!</span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/b7Zz4n7WFkk&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/b7Zz4n7WFkk&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Flex - Mad Cobra, as voted by my Richie<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/EP8h3OaHM3c&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/EP8h3OaHM3c&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; ">Dollar Whine - Soca Boys, as voted by Diane, Christy and Marie</span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cehv7TTFM6Q&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cehv7TTFM6Q&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; ">Feeling Hot Hot Hot - Arrow, as voted by Janice</span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/IGBXhDZXTqY&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/IGBXhDZXTqY&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; ">Tease Me - Chaka Demus &amp; Pliers, as voted by Mikey</span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ixZjoc_jlmQ&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ixZjoc_jlmQ&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Hol Up You Foot and Jump - Zulu Lightning, as voted by Shach &amp; Laura<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/F683eMPii3Q&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/F683eMPii3Q&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; ">Gimme D Ting - Lord Kitchener, as voted by Senga</span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/b_zAVT8dFCI&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/b_zAVT8dFCI&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Fools Paradise - Melissa Morgan, as voted by Venice Webb </span><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/sVUvZDmABdI&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/sVUvZDmABdI&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">You Know You’re at Notting Hill Carnival When…</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- You pay £10 for a piece of jerk chicken, rice and peas and a can of coke and don’t even screw about it.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- Walk for at least 20 miles and spend the entire day dipping it low like a teenager, not feeling the effects until two days later when you can‘t get out of bed.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- Whine with at least one aesthetically challenged/ dirty old man who you ordinarily wouldn’t give the time of day to. Hey, it’s carnival after all.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- Spend most of the day arguing with your friends (or most likely a friend of a friend) about which sounds to visit: “What do you mean she wants to listen to acid jazz? Listen, this ain’t in Camden. Laters to that”</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">- Devote too much time and energy to finding the Westwood stage, only to get there and find yourself squash up in a Slam dance situation (Onyx stylee) with dudes who looked like they’ve just stepped out of Pentonville.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">For further information on the Carnival visit<a href="http://www.nottinghillcarnival.com/"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">www.nottinghillcarnival.com</span></a></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/08/its-baccannal-time.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-604916659835418228Thu, 27 Aug 2009 21:58:00 +00002009-08-28T00:03:02.090+01:00BashyBeverley KnightH BoogieJade EwenKanoLemarMobo Nominations partyPeter AndreSabrina WashingtonWileyMOBO Awards Nomination Pardee<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SpcH9qBUxJI/AAAAAAAAA4k/aZt2sfRgFGA/s1600-h/kanyaking.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 259px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SpcH9qBUxJI/AAAAAAAAA4k/aZt2sfRgFGA/s400/kanyaking.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374773436123235474" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Kanya King: MOBO Awards founder and CEO</span></span></span><br /><div><br /></div><div>So last night I attended the MOBO Nomination Party at the Mayfair Hotel and have to admit - I had a bloody good night. Call it the free booze. Or the fact that I haven't been out in eons. Or maybe it was ha ing the opportunity to have a giggle and a quick boogie with old faces I hadn't seen in ages. Or was it the fact that I got to meet Britain's Got Talent dance crew, Flawless? I dunno what it was exactly. But all I know is that I stumbled home just after 10pm last night feeling all giddy, excitable and filled with a lorra lorra love. If I'm being honest I didn't pay a whole lot of attention to the nominations, <a href="http://www.moboawardsglasgow.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">but you can read the full list here.</span></a> I did enjoy the performances though.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> Bashy</span> and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Estelle's</span> little sis, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">H-Boogie</span> performed their single <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">'Your Wish is My Command'</span></span> with plenty of gusto. Then little bitsy <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Jade Ewen</span> took to the stage and executed a very confident rendition of her single <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">'My Man',</span></span> I was quite impressed. While she was singing I kept shouting to anyone who would listen "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Why didn't they give a song like this to Alex (Burke), she would've killed it" (</span>NOTE: I'm too upset to talk about Alex's debut single... I just can't). Other artists in the building included <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Beverley Knight, Lemar, Sabrina Washington, Wiley, Kano and Peter Andre. </span>They've yet to announce who will be hosting the awards, but they will take place in Glasgow on September 30th. Planning on attending? <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://madnews.wordpress.com/2009/08/27/more-pics-2009-mobo-awards-nominations-launch-party-london/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Visit my girl Janice at Madnews for more pics. </span></a></div></div>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/08/mobo-awards-nomination-pardee.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-3040721570042863545Thu, 27 Aug 2009 21:27:00 +00002009-08-27T22:48:26.775+01:00Arlenis SosaChanel ImanID MagazineJourdan DunnPretty Young ThingRobert PalmerSessilee Lopez<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spb7RG35neI/AAAAAAAAA4c/4gKJ_vL1NS4/s1600-h/ID+Pretty+Young+Things.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 307px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Spb7RG35neI/AAAAAAAAA4c/4gKJ_vL1NS4/s400/ID+Pretty+Young+Things.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374759476634688994" /></a><br /><br /><div>It's definitely raining <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">hot magazine covers </span>at the moment, and with this in mind I couldn't resist posting <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">ID's</span> latest cover featuring the latest crop of supermodels including <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Jourdan, Chanel Iman,<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "> </span>Sessilee Lopez <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; ">and </span>Arlenis Sosa<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; ">. I love the aptly titled cover line - Pretty Young Thing, which is also an obvious nod to MJ (RIP). I'm also loving the </span>Robert Palmer Addicted to Love </span> video<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; ">homage. One look at the simple black dresses, slicked back hair, and bright red lippy, lets you know that the fashion director was definitely pumping the iconic 80's rock anthem through his/her speakers when thinking up concepts. Loves it! </span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">And now for the original </span></span><br /></div><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xEqsZExmDzI&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xEqsZExmDzI&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/08/its-definitely-raining-hot-magazine.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-3167300142444021214Thu, 27 Aug 2009 17:18:00 +00002009-08-27T18:24:50.545+01:00Rihanna: Strikes a Pose!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SpbBWvg6xcI/AAAAAAAAA4M/aYA0TryorJ0/s1600-h/rihanna-vogue2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SpbBWvg6xcI/AAAAAAAAA4M/aYA0TryorJ0/s400/rihanna-vogue2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374695801769084354" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><div><br /></div>Rihanna</span> is absolutely untouchable in the style stakes at the moment, no other R&amp;B starlet comes even close. Hark at my girl on the cover of the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">September's Vogue Italia</span></span> this month.To coin fashion's most overused phrase: simply fi-eeerce! <a href="http://www.madnews.biz/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Source</span></a>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/08/rihanna-strikes-pose.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-8479293627571664191Thu, 27 Aug 2009 08:54:00 +00002009-08-27T10:08:11.167+01:00Naomie HarrisPride magazine September issueSmall IslandNaomie Harris Covers Pride<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SpZMFRGsFPI/AAAAAAAAA4E/r1VxxHGvMe0/s1600-h/Naomie+Harris.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 312px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SpZMFRGsFPI/AAAAAAAAA4E/r1VxxHGvMe0/s400/Naomie+Harris.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374566858687780082" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><div>Hey folks, I've been a bit off the radar of late, but I'm back!! Just a quick one to prompt you to pick up the latest issue of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Pride</span>. Actress <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Naomie Harris</span> graces the cover and was interviewed by yours truly. Naomie will be starring in the BBC's adaptation of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Andrea Levy's</span> novel, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Small Island </span>which will air this autumn. I've seen a few clips of the film and it looks as if it will be pretty decent. I hope you like the interview if you get a chance to read. Naomie is a total sweetie, but that can sometimes work against you when writing features because there isn't anything particularly controversial to draw upon to generate discussion and debate. That said, I admire Naomie's low key demeanor. She doesn't really do the red carpet "celebrity" thing, and just wants to bag decent roles and make great films. Some of today's entertainers should really take note. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/08/naomie-harris-covers-pride.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-1683088879052604186Mon, 10 Aug 2009 22:42:00 +00002009-08-11T00:09:12.090+01:00Chick, Chick, Chick, Chick - Chicken!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SoClle3KzoI/AAAAAAAAA38/W-re0Mg_dJU/s1600-h/Jerk+Cookout.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/SoClle3KzoI/AAAAAAAAA38/W-re0Mg_dJU/s400/Jerk+Cookout.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5368472819183832706" /></a><br /><p></p><p></p><p>So off I headed to the Horniman Museum for what I thought would be a relatively calm and serene Sunday afternoon event. THIS IS WHAT I WAS FACED WITH. Was soooo not prepared for the madness, mayhem and exceedingly long queues of yesterday's Jerk Cookout festival which took place in Forest Hill, South East London. I went to the same event about 3 years ago and there were literally about 500 people I'd say. Yesterday, apparently the numbers were in the region of 20,000 plus. Wowser. I'm really happy for Tony Fairweather and his team who put the event together, but I'm really not certain if they'll be able to hold it at the same venue next year if it continues to grow so rapidly. And admittedly, it is a good idea. The initial format was to have a handful of Caribbean food caterers battling it out to see who could make the baddest, lip smacking jerk chicken. This year I think they scrapped the competition element and instead opted for loads of Caribbean food stalls selling their mouth watering cuisine to plenty of willing customers. The queues were huge people - I'm talking an hour's wait for a piece of jerk chicken. Yeah it tasted good, but the verdict is still out on whether it was worth such a long wait. This year along with the food stalls, they also added 2 stages with live music, PA's and even attempted a world record of 5000 people doing 'The Candy Dance' simultaneously. Would love to tell you how that went but was too busy standing in line for chicken.</p><p><span style="font-size:78%;">*Note: I blatantly nicked the pic of Facebook. If it belongs to you and you object to it being posted, please feel free to email me at keysha_ifeoma@hotmail.com </span></p>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/08/chick-chick-chick-chick-chicken.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-192652522563907343Mon, 10 Aug 2009 22:00:00 +00002009-08-10T23:22:29.854+01:00You're Beautiful...Woman<p><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 296px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Cnc4TPwKBEQ/Smm4SfYMzTI/AAAAAAAAA3s/LMhTIMUmxlw/s400/Youre+beautiful+woman.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362019459161443634" /></p><p>This post is super late, late, late. But for my UK based peeps, I need to ask what you are you up to this coming Saturday? Nadda? Okay, well if that's the case then I urge you to head down to the Highgate Newton Community Centre in North London to check out You're Beautiful Woman, a groundbreaking event celebrating black beauty inside and out. With a host of events to empower and inspire, guests can immerse themselves in the wonderful things on offer such as seminars, workshops, beauty demonstrations and stalls selling everything to make you feel beautiful. My mate, the lovely Ronke over at <a href="http://www.themusingsofondolady.blogspot.com/"><strong>The Musings of Ondo Lady</strong></a> is part of the You're Beautiful team, so you know it's gots to be good. <strong><a href="http://www.yourebeautifulwoman.com/">Visit their official site for further details.</a></strong> </p><p>And I'll leave you with this oldie but goodie, that I always think of whenever I hear the name of this event. </p><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/L0v-YoRy-Iw&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/L0v-YoRy-Iw&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/08/youre-beautifulwoman.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620702834366555766.post-5766720625732844582Mon, 10 Aug 2009 21:51:00 +00002009-08-10T22:58:23.647+01:00BashyH BoogieYour Wish is My CommandCan't Get it Outta My Head: New Bashy<object width="560" height="340"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/F4k2OkWfhQk&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br />Just checked out <strong>Your Wish is My Command </strong>the new video by <strong>Bashy</strong> featuring Estelle's lil sis <strong>H-Boogie</strong>. I hear this track on 1-Xtra all the time and had no idea it was Bashy. Loving the whole tongue in cheek retro vibe. Check out the tight pants and Travolta-esq pelvic thrusts - luvs it. Huge big ups to Bashy for always attempting to take it there by being witty, provocative and inventive in equal measure. And with the 70's being of my favourite artistic eras, he gets extra extra cool points. http://thecocoadiaries.blogspot.com/2009/08/cant-get-it-outta-my-head-new-bashy.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (MsQuiche)0